Ascension Power
Scripture Reading — Ephesians 1:15-23
That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ . . . and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms...
Some stories are so good that they simply need to be told again and again. The ascension is one of those stories.
As Jesus’ followers looked back on that day when he ascended into heaven, they began to see how it marked a turning point in their understanding of him as the Son of God. Until that time, they had worked alongside Jesus, recognizing him as a great teacher and miracle worker. But after Ascension Day, they began to realize he is the cosmic Lord of all.
Many of our daily routines feel rather “un-cosmic.” We talk to our neighbors, drive to work, pay our bills, wash our clothes, and so on. In many situations we may also feel limited in our ability to do things: we are disabled, or in prison, or feeling “stuck” in life.
Yet God’s Spirit wants us to see that the same power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him at God’s right hand is at work in us. God can transform our routine chores and conversations into expressions of his love. The same authority that the ascended Christ has as Lord of all extends into our routine actions and interactions.
If you have difficulty believing this, go back and recall the story of the ascended Lord. Remember who it is that you worship and serve as a follower of Jesus, so that you may know him better and hope in him.
Lord of all, open the eyes of my heart so that I may know you better. You fill all things; fill me so that your power, love, and authority are clearly visible in all I do. Amen.
About the author — Joel Vande Werken
Joel Vande Werken has been a pastor since 2007, serving churches in Sussex, New Jersey, and in Whitinsville, Massachusetts. He and his wife, Brandie, have five young children.
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